What is dry eye syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome occurs when your tears can’t adequately lubricate the front surface of your eyes. Our tears are composed of three layers – the outer oily layer, the middle watery layer and the inner mucus layer – that work together to keep our eyes moist and healthy. With every blink, this tear film is distributed across the eye’s surface.
There are two primary types of dry eye syndrome:
- Water-deficient dry eye Occurs when the lacrimal glands don’t produce enough tears to keep the eyes hydrated.
- Evaporative dry eye Results from an insufficient outer oily layer, causing the middle watery layer to evaporate too quickly.
- Common symptoms of dry eye syndrome
Dry eye is more than just an annoyance – it can significantly impact your daily comfort and quality of life. Watch for these symptoms in 2025:
- Sharp pains
- Blurred vision
- Watery eyes
- Redness
- Burning or stinging
- Light sensitivity
What causes dry eye syndrome?
Let’s make 2025 the year we identify and mitigate the causes of dry eye syndrome. Some common risk factors include:
- Age: being 50 years or older increases your risk
- Gender: women are more susceptible due to hormonal changes
- Immune diseases: certain autoimmune conditions can affect tear production
- Contact lenses: long-term use can irritate the eyes
- Environmental conditions: exposure to dry climates, wind or smoke, as well as prolonged screen time or reading, can reduce blinking and exacerbate dryness
- Treating and preventing dry eye syndrome
Managing dry eye syndrome often requires ongoing care and lifestyle adjustments, making it a great resolution for the year ahead. Here’s how to protect and soothe your eyes this year:
- Daily hydration: drink plenty of water to keep your body – and your eyes – hydrated
- Eat for eye health: include omega-3 fatty acids and a balanced diet rich in nutrients
- Sunglasses are essential: shield your eyes from wind and UV exposure with protective eyewear
- Use artificial tears: incorporate artificial tears into your routine to maintain tear film balance
- Break from screens: practise the 20-20-20 rule – every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce digital eye strain
Make eye comfort a priority in 2025
If you’ve been experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule an eye exam and share your concerns with our doctor at Algarvisão. Let’s make 2025 the year we put dry eyes behind us and embrace a fresh perspective on healthy vision!
Algarvisão –Advanced Eyecare